Alyssa Valdez ‘very willing’ to suit up for Alas Pilipinas, says PNVF chief

Alyssa Valdez

MANILA, Philippines — In its time of need, Alyssa Valdez is able and willing to lend a helping hand to Alas Pilipinas even for one last time.

The battle-scarred former many-time national team captain said she is ready to answer the call as the Nationals start practice Monday as part of their preparation for the AVC Women’s Cup slated June 6-14 in Candon City, Ilocos Sur.

“Very willing to support,” Philippine National Volleyball Federation president Tonyboy Liao on Sunday told The STAR, referring to Valdez.

Asked in what capacity, Liao said as a “player”.

But Liao was non-committal as to the status of the final national team lineup as well as the interim coach who will temporarily hold the reins while head mentor Tai Bundit recovers from an ankle injury he sustained from a scooter accident back home in Bangkok, Thailand more than a week ago.

He hinted though it could come from a member of the coaching staff consisting of multi-titled Creamline tactician Sherwin Meneses, Cignal coach Shaq delos Santos, La Salle’s Benson Bocboc and Adamson’s JP Yude.

La Salle’s Angel Canino, Shevana Laput and Amie Provido as well as Akari libero Justine Jazareno have reportedly committed to play.

Those who have reportedly said no were Alas skipper Jia de Guzman, Bella Belen, and Alyssa Solomon, who didn’t give reasons for declining it, and Shaina Nitura, who is injured.

And there is hope Valdez, a former Southeast Asian Games flag-bearer, would show up.